Sophie Garbin Crowned 2026 Sharelle McMahon Medallist

The Sharelle McMahon Medal, named in honour of the Vixens and Australian netball great in 2014, is the club’s highest individual honour and recognises the team’s most valuable player each year, as voted by the coaching panel.

Garbin’s exceptional form and consistency across the 2026 campaign saw her poll in 12 out of the 14 home-and-away matches to finish on 55 votes, ahead of ahead of runner up, club captain Kate Moloney on 44 votes.

Finishing the home and away season with 493 goals,146 feeds and 84 goal assists, Garbin was a constant presence in the Vixens’ attacking end and a key driver of the side’s performance throughout the year.

Her reliability under the post, strong connection with the attacking unit and ability to stand up in key moments played a critical role in the Vixens’ season, helping set up a memorable season that culminated in last night’s Grand Final.

Vixens head coach Di Honey said: "Sophie has had an outstanding season and this award is a reflection of the consistency, professionalism and impact she's brought every single week.”

"Sophie sets incredibly high standards for herself and earns the respect of everyone around her through the way she prepares and competes. She's been a wonderful role model within our club.”

"To see her recognised with her first Sharelle McMahon Medal is thoroughly deserved.”

“It's a reward for the hard work she's put in over a long period of time, and we're all incredibly proud of what she's achieved."

2026 Sharelle McMahon Medal Top 5

Sophie Garbin – 55
Kate Moloney - 44
Jo Weston - 42
Zara Walters - 35
Kiera Austin - 21

OTHER AWARDS

Elite Behaviours Award – Kate Moloney

Moloney received the Elite Behaviours Award, selected by Head Coach Di Honey in consultation with coaching and performance staff. The award recognises the player who has shown consistent commitment to high-performance standards across training, competition and preparation.

Outstanding Service Award – Emma Iacovou

Emma Iacovou, the Vixens physiotherapist was awarded the Outstanding Service Award, voted by team staff and athletes, recognising those who provided outstanding support to athletes and staff across the year and represented the team in line with the Vixens’ values.

Excellence in Sport & Life Award – Zara Walters

Zara Walters took out the Excellence in Sport & Life Award, recognising a player who has demonstrated exceptional skills in balancing sport, study and work.

Player of the Finals – Kate Moloney

Kate Moloney was named Player of the Finals, presented to the athlete deemed by the coaching staff to have performed above and beyond for the team during the finals series.

Players’ Player Award - Kate Eddy

Kate Eddy was named Players’ Player, presented to the player recognised by their peers for their contribution to the team both on and off the court, including consistently demonstrating team values, culture and behaviours alongside on-court performance.

Vixens Academy Rising Star Award – Sahara Ball

Sahara Ball was named Vixens Academy Rising Star, awarded to a player aged 23 years or under who has demonstrated outstanding development, professionalism and commitment throughout the season, as determined by coaching and performance staff.

Vixens Academy Most Valuable Player – Mia Lavis

Mia Lavis received the Vixens Academy Most Valuable Player award, presented to the best and fairest player in the Super Netball Reserves season, including finals, as voted by the Head Coach and Assistant Coach at each game.

Volunteer of the Year – Carmel Wright

Carmel Wright received the Volunteer of the Year Award, for her outstanding service to support the delivery of Melbourne Vixens home games.